Reduction and analysis of the defensive qi theory in Huangdi Neijing
10.3969/j.issn.1006-2157.2025.02.004
- VernacularTitle:《黄帝内经》卫气理论还原与解析
- Author:
Juan HE
1
Author Information
1. Beijing University of Chinese Medicine
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Huangdi Neijing;
defensive qi;
nutrient qi;
genuine qi;
yang qi;
channel
- From:
Journal of Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
2025;48(2):166-173
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Defensive qi is a core concept of qi theory in the Huangdi Neijing. Some chapters of the Huangdi Neijing and later physicians often refer to both nutrient qi and defensive qi as ying-wei qi, viewing them as interdependent; however, the status and role of defensive qi far exceed that of nutrient qi. According to the Huangdi Neijing, defensive qi plays a crucial role in life activities, disease occurrence, and acupuncture treatment. However, the text also presents various descriptions of the circulation and distribution of defensive qi, with conceptual overlaps and interconnections with yang and genuine qi, resulting in a somewhat unsystematic understanding of defensive qi theory in later generations. This study elucidates the formation and foundation theories of defensive qi based on records from pre-Qin literature and the Huangdi Neijing. The background of the emergence of defensive qi lies in ancient moxa-wool moxibustion therapy, used to treat diseases caused by cold pathogens, which embodies the nurturing and therapeutic effects on human health and represents a concretization of the abstract philosophical concept of qi. The circulation of defensive qi exists in three patterns: from the extremities to the head and face, from the head and face to the hands and feet, and circularly through the twelve meridians originating from the middle jiao. These patterns reflect the integration of medical practice and philosophical thought. In the Huangdi Neijing, the concept of defensive qi is a medical term closely related to somatological medicine, rooted in acupuncture and moxibustion practices. Defensive qi circulates between the muscles and within the fascia and is closely associated with the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. Defensive qi holds great theoretical and clinical value in modern acupuncture treatment and life science research.
- Full text:2025032110230274916Reduction and analysis of the defensive qi theory in Huangdi Neijing.pdf
